The IOOF Foundation Directors have recently approved a new grant with the Doxa Youth Foundation provides innovative, Engaging education programs for children and young people to achieve their highest potential despite experiencing disadvantage. Camps — School — Cadetships.

The IOOF Foundation has closed applications for this financial year. The final applications are currently under review and the applicants will be notified by the 6th of June 2014 the outcome of their application.

The Kids Under Cover Studio Program is a very successful early intervention program that can have a life changing impact for young people at risk of homelessness. Kids Under Cover Studios provide high quality temporary accommodation for one or two young people up to 25 years of age in the backyard of the carer’s main dwelling. The Studio provides a stable and nurturing environment to prevent the young person from leaving home prematurely without financial security or adequate life skills. The IOOF Foundation is supporting Kids Under Cover’s Studio program in Victoria.

We are excited to announce IOOF has agreed to become Principal Partner for the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute (MCRI) Step-a-thon event in September – a national campaign aimed to get kids active, and at the same time, raise funds for important children's health research.

Known as Eloura, Blue Mountains Disability Services provides training and employment, residential and day program services to more than 120 people with a disability. By adopting a person-centred approach, Eloura recognises the value and contribution of all participants and has designed initiatives to help individuals reach their full potential in all areas of their lives.

We are continuing our support of the Wesley Mission team, as they help ensure young peoples education remains a priority when they are staying in residential care because of statutory protection orders.

The project aims to keep children or young people engaged in school through support from the care team members around them. It also aims to get the child/young person themselves through active support.

In 2013 the Foundation will continue to support the Berry Big Adventure (BBA). The BBA provides a small group of severely disadvantage and marginalised young people with a challenging adventure experience in remote areas of Australia's north. The program is designed to counteract the negative histories and day-day lives of participants, providing a strong 'positive memory'.